26+ Other Ways to Say “and Then” (with 90+ Examples)

Repeating “and then” in every sentence makes a story or essay feel like a shopping list. Sharper transitions like “subsequently,” “following that,” or “thereafter” move the reader through time with rhythm and confidence. This guide gives you 26 alternatives matched to the exact situation, from casual storytelling to formal academic writing.

In this guide, you’ll find 26 handpicked alternatives to “and then,” each with a clear definition and an example sentence. Use them for essays, stories, reports, and step-by-step guides. You can also explore the synonym finder on infospebble.com for even more word choices across dozens of topics.

In this guide

1. Casual ways to say “and then”
2. Formal and professional alternatives
3. Vivid and descriptive words
4. Quick comparison: which word should you use?
5. Frequently Asked Questions

Casual ways to say “and then”

• 1. Next, the immediate step that follows. Mix the batter; next, pour it into the pan.
• 2. After that, what happens once something is done. We ate dinner, and after that we watched a movie.
• 3. Following that, slightly smoother than “after that.” Following that meeting, the team revised the plan.
• 4. After which, links two events elegantly. He graduated in June, after which he traveled abroad.
• 5. From there, the story continues from this point. She moved to the city, and from there her career took off.
• 6. Later, at a subsequent, less specific time. We talked for an hour; later, he called back.
• 7. Afterward, after the event just described. The concert was amazing; afterward, we got pizza.
• 8. And after that, a conversational chain-builder. First we packed, and after that we loaded the car.

Formal and professional alternatives

• 9. Subsequently, the academic standard for “after this.” Subsequently, the company launched a new product line.
• 10. Thereafter, formal, often legal or contractual. Thereafter, quarterly reviews were held.
• 11. Following this, a polished sentence starter for reports. Following this, the committee issued its findings.
• 12. In the following step, ideal for procedures and instructions. In the following step, verify your email address.
• 13. At a later stage, a vague but professional time marker. The data will be analyzed at a later stage.
• 14. Thereupon, immediately after, with an old-fashioned, formal air. The bell rang; thereupon, the students stood.
• 15. As a next step, a business-friendly transition. As a next step, we will schedule user interviews.
• 16. In due course, eventually, at the proper time. The full results will be published in due course.
• 17. Ensuing, describing what comes immediately after. The ensuing discussion lasted two hours.

Vivid and descriptive words

• 18. Then came, a storyteller’s launchpad for the next event. Then came the moment nobody expected.
• 19. Up next, energetic and forward-looking. Up next: the final round of interviews.
• 20. Onward, movement continuing without pause. He finished school and marched onward into adulthood.
• 21. In turn, each step triggering the next. She won the heat, and in turn qualified for the final.
• 22. Right after, immediately, with punch. The lights went out right after midnight.
• 23. Soon after, a short gap, then the next thing. Soon after, the invitations went out.
• 24. Without missing a beat, continuing instantly and smoothly. She answered without missing a beat.
• 25. Down the line, further along the sequence. A few chapters down the line, the twist appears.
• 26. One thing led to another, a casual chain of cause and effect. One thing led to another, and we were hiking by dawn.

Quick comparison: which word should you use?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is “and then” grammatically correct?

Yes, “and then” is perfectly grammatical for linking sequential events. The Merriam-Webster entry for “then” defines it as meaning “at that time” or “soon after that,” confirming it as a legitimate time connector. Style guides simply advise against overusing it, since stronger transitions exist.

What is the most formal way to say “and then”?

“Subsequently” is the most common formal choice, safe in essays, reports, and research papers. “Thereafter” is even more formal but can sound stiff outside legal or contractual writing. For business writing, “following this” or “as a next step” keeps things professional without sounding academic.

Can I start a sentence with “and then”?

In casual writing, yes, though it can feel choppy if repeated. In formal writing, prefer “subsequently,” “following this,” or “afterward” at the start of a sentence. For more sequencing phrases, see our other ways to say “and finally” and other ways to say “after all”.

Final thoughts

The right alternative to “and then” depends on your register and how much time passes between events. Use “next” and “after that” for casual flow, “subsequently” and “thereafter” for formal writing, and vivid picks like “then came” when you’re telling a story. Whatever you choose, make it meaningful, a good transition keeps the reader moving without ever noticing the seams.